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## **EXCLUSIVE: Cincinnati Reds’ Legendary Duo, Joey Votto & Barry Larkin, Among the Most Dynamic Playmakers in Franchise History, Announce Multi-Million Dollar Endowment to Reds Community Fund — Giving Back to Support Youth Development and Cementing Their Legacy in Cincinnati**
In a move that blends generosity, legacy, and an unshakable commitment to their city, Cincinnati Reds legends **Joey Votto** and **Barry Larkin** have announced a **multi-million dollar endowment** to the **Reds Community Fund** — a gesture that’s already being hailed as one of the most impactful philanthropic contributions in franchise history.
The stunning announcement came during a packed press conference at Great American Ball Park, where fans, media, and community leaders gathered to witness two of the Reds’ most iconic figures share their vision for the future of youth development in the Queen City. Wearing wide smiles and Reds caps, Votto and Larkin stood side by side, representing more than four decades of combined excellence on the diamond.
“This city has given us so much,” said Votto, the six-time All-Star and 2010 National League MVP. “It’s where I grew up as a player, and it’s where I became part of a family. Now it’s our turn to make sure the next generation has the same opportunities — or even better ones.”
Larkin, a Hall of Famer and 12-time All-Star shortstop, echoed those sentiments. “I know firsthand how much mentorship and opportunity can change a young person’s life. This endowment is about more than baseball — it’s about education, life skills, and opening doors for kids who might not see a path forward.”
The **multi-million dollar commitment** will be used to expand the Reds Community Fund’s outreach programs, which already serve thousands of children each year through baseball clinics, academic tutoring, and leadership workshops. The new funding will allow for the construction of state-of-the-art indoor training facilities, expanded scholarships for underprivileged youth, and an increase in mentorship programs pairing current and former Reds players with young athletes.
Reds CEO Bob Castellini called the donation “a generational gift” that will echo throughout the community for decades to come. “Joey and Barry are more than just legends on the field — they’re leaders off of it,” Castellini said. “This is about building a future where every child in Cincinnati feels like they have a shot at success.”
Fans in attendance were moved by the gesture. Many sported vintage Larkin jerseys or Votto’s familiar No. 19, snapping photos as the duo signed baseballs and posed with local youth teams. One young player, 13-year-old Marcus Daniels, summed up the feeling in the room: “It’s like our heroes are saying, ‘We believe in you.’ That means everything.”
The announcement also serves as a reminder that sports can be a bridge — connecting generations, communities, and dreams. For Votto and Larkin, this isn’t about headlines or accolades. It’s about giving back to the city that helped shape them, ensuring that the next wave of talent, leaders, and dreamers has the support they need.
“This is home,” Larkin said with a smile. “And when it’s home, you take care of it.”
With this landmark donation, two of Cincinnati’s greatest have once again proven that true greatness extends far beyond the box score.
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